As Fiji’s urban population continues to grow, the demand for public burial spaces is increasingly becoming a pressing issue. During a recent consultation regarding the Burial and Cremations Act, Auta Moceisuva, Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Correctional Services (FCS), shared insights on proactive measures being taken to explore potential new burial sites, particularly in Namosi Province.
Moceisuva highlighted that discussions with the i-Taukei Land Trust Board are underway to identify suitable land. Current public burial sites in Nasinu and Suva are projected to reach full capacity in the next 10 to 15 years due to the high number of daily burials. He stated, “This is a forward-looking measure to ensure that public graves are available for Fijians in the years ahead,” underscoring the need for proactive planning.
The FCS also made it clear that no new burial site has been officially confirmed yet, clarifying any misconceptions that may have arisen regarding the land in Namosi. The consultation process reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the urgent need for burial spaces and the welfare of the community.
Concerns regarding burial space resonate beyond just Namosi. Urban areas like Suva and Lautoka are facing similar challenges, leading to an urgent call for sustainable land management solutions. Landowners, however, have been hesitant to lease plots for new burial grounds due to fears of diminishing property values in those neighborhoods.
In response to the pressing need for burial spaces, the FCS has also been involved in promoting cremation as a viable alternative. Cremation has been gaining acceptance across different cultures in Fiji, with modern crematoriums being established to alleviate pressure on burial sites. This shift is reflected in the ongoing commitment to upgrade and regulate cremation services, aligning more closely with the nation’s cultural practices while addressing the challenges of urbanization.
Overall, as Fiji navigates these significant changes in its approach to end-of-life services, there is a hopeful outlook towards collaborative efforts that seek to respect cultural traditions while prioritizing practical solutions. The proactive measures being explored could pave the way for maintaining dignity in burial practices and ensuring that future generations have access to necessary end-of-life services.